The primary goals of the music education program is to involve all students in grades K-4 in a wide variety of musical experiences. The students will develop:



· The ability to communicate their thoughts and feelings in a variety of modes, giving them a more powerful repertoire of self-expression.

· Positive attitudes toward music and an appreciation for its intrinsic worth.




These goals are accomplished throughout the school year during the weekly, full class meetings. Through the use of simple percussion instruments and the Orff philosophy of music through rhythmic playing, all students are exposed to basic elements of music. Some specific examples of music experiences are:



Third and Fourth grade recorder programs. The third grade is initially exposed to instrumental music through the “in class” playing and practice of the soprano recorder.

The fourth grade receives a more comprehensive experience with the recorder. Each student is given the opportunity to take home for study the recorder and basic book. During class, the students learn traditional notation and formal reading of the treble
clef staff.


Another aspect of the music curriculum is the enrichment portion. Qualifying students are invited to attend either the vocal or instrumental enrichment sessions. Students displaying unusual abilities in these areas are given the opportunity to participate and later perform publicly songs rehearsed during the enrichment sessions.


· The entire student body performs in a minimum of two concerts. These are traditionally a winter and spring program. The art and enrichment teachers work with the music teacher to coordinate a full-scale musical production. This is one opportunity for enrichment programs to spotlight work of students. Scripts are coordinated through the enrichment teacher.


In addition, music is integrated with other disciplines. For example, artwork is created under the direction of the art teacher. The art teacher(s) and music teacher work closely together to create a different theme each year. Occasionally, the PE teacher also offer their expertise in any dance routines.


· All students are given the opportunity to play and investigate the various Orff instruments and keyboards in the music room. Following the current texts coupled with a wide variety of other published works, the students learn independent and group performance.

Music has been integrated into the classrooms as well. Teachers often inform the music department to topics and themes being taught. Then the music teacher researches and contributes musical activities to enhance the classroom work. Finally, another of the goals of the music department is to give to the children the enjoyment of music that hopefully will last a lifetime.